metro

Why I stopped Biafra independence — Gowon

Published

11 months ago

June 8, 2025

Former military Head of State, Yakubu Gowon (Rtd)

Why I Stopped Biafra Independence — Gowon

Former Nigerian Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon (rtd), has described the Nigerian Civil War as a “difficult necessity” undertaken to preserve the country’s unity and territorial integrity, not out of hatred or vengeance.

The war which started in 1967 and ended 1970 followed the attempted secession of the Eastern Region of Nigeria, led by Colonel Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu, now late, who declared the Republic of Biafra.

The conflict claimed over a million lives, primarily through famine and disease, a strategy for victory adopted by the military junta led by Gowon.

The strategy which has continued to be condemned left deep scars on the national psyche and Gowon has had to defend his actions at every forum.

Gowon, who became Nigeria’s Head of State in 1966 at the age of 31, later initiated the post-war policy of “No victor, no vanquished,” aimed at reconciliation and reintegration after suppressing the secession in such a brutal style.

Defending his action over the weekend while addressing participants at the Annual Conference of the Anglican Men’s Christian Fellowship in Abuja, Gowon called on Nigerians to embrace forgiveness, reconciliation, and mutual respect as pillars for national healing and unity.

The event brought together a diverse gathering of prominent religious and political leaders, including the Primate of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Most Reverend Henry Ndukuba, and representatives of former President Goodluck Jonathan.

Reflecting on the 1967–1970 Nigerian Civil War, Gowon, who led the country through the conflict, acknowledged the trauma of the period and the weight of responsibility he bore.

READ ALSO:

“I always remember the Civil War. It was the most difficult period of my life,” he said.

“It was not my choice, but I had to be there and do what I did to keep this country together. It was never about hatred. There is love and respect between us.”

The 91-year-old elder statesman explained that his decision to resist the secessionist bid of Biafra was guided by a vision of national unity and an abiding commitment to the idea of Nigeria as one indivisible entity.

“We stopped Biafra’s independence not to suppress the people, but to protect the soul of a united Nigeria. It was a difficult necessity, not an act of malice,” Gowon said.

“My choices were guided by prayer, integrity, and compassion for all Nigerians.”

Gowon also recalled the personal cost of the war, including the tragic loss of close friends and colleagues. Among them was Major Arthur Unegbe, whose death he described as deeply painful.

“Many of us lost dear friends, brothers, and compatriots. I lost my very close friend, Major Arthur Unegbe, and countless others whose sacrifice must not be in vain,” he noted.

Gowon urged Nigerians, particularly the younger generation, to reject divisive ideologies and instead support efforts aimed at fostering peace and national cohesion.

“This is my prayer, and I ask your prayers for Nigeria so that we can continue to unite and live together as one people — whether Christian, Muslim, or unbeliever,” he said.

READ ALSO:

In his address, the Primate of the Church of Nigeria, Most Rev. Henry Ndukuba, called on Nigeria’s political leaders to govern with the fear of God and genuine love for the people. He warned that corruption, nepotism, and greed remain among the chief threats to Nigeria’s development and stability.

“We must confront the ills of corruption, nepotism, and greed with courage and truth,” Ndukuba said. “Our leaders must act with integrity and a heart for service.”

He also offered a word of counsel to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, urging him to keep a watchful eye on his appointees and ensure they serve the nation faithfully.

“We urge President Tinubu to closely monitor those he has entrusted with leadership. The people are watching, and history will remember,” he added.

Ndukuba reaffirmed the Church’s commitment to nurturing ethical leadership:

“The Church will continue to raise men and women of integrity for the nation.”

Also speaking at the event, Isaac Chukwudi, President of the Abuja Diocesan Christian Men’s Fellowship, acknowledged the economic and social hardships currently facing many Nigerians.

He encouraged men to remain steadfast and committed to their roles as leaders in their homes and communities.

“In these difficult times, we urge Christian men not to relent. Your role in the family and society is more critical now than ever,” Chukwudi said.

Former President Goodluck Jonathan, represented by John-Kennedy Opara, commended the honorees for their dedication to national service, morality, and faith.

“These men have touched lives, and God has used them in many ways to impact the nation,” Opara remarked. “Their legacies will inspire generations to come.”

The conference culminated in the presentation of Lifetime Integrity and Achievement Awards to notable Nigerians, including General Yakubu Gowon, former High Commissioner to the UK Dr. Christopher Kolade, and Owelle Gilbert Chikellu, for their unwavering service to the Church, nation, and humanity.

Why I Stopped Biafra Independence — Gowon

Related Topics:Biafra Featured Independence

Up Next

Military officer shot UNIPORT student dead – Police

Don't Miss

2027 poll won’t have credibility with current INEC officials – SERAP

metro

13 Killed As Terrorists Launch Fresh Midnight Attack In Plateau

Published

30 seconds ago

May 8, 2026

Trends Admin

Plateau State Police Command, Alabo Alfred

13 Killed As Terrorists Launch Fresh Midnight Attack In Plateau

Residents of Plateau State have again been thrown into mourning after suspected terrorists launched a deadly midnight attack on Ngbra Zongo hamlet in Kwall District of Bassa Local Government Area, killing at least 13 people and injuring several others.

The attack reportedly occurred around 12 a.m. on Friday when heavily armed assailants stormed the community, shooting sporadically and attacking residents with machetes and other dangerous weapons.

Eyewitnesses said the attackers moved from house to house during the invasion, forcing terrified villagers to flee into nearby bushes to avoid being killed.

A resident of the community, Philip Alanga, described the attack as terrifying and brutal.

“They came into the community around midnight and started shooting and hacking people to death.

“They moved from one house to another, attacking innocent people,” he said.

According to local sources, several residents sustained varying degrees of injuries during the assault, while homes and properties were also affected as panic spread across the area.

READ ALSO:

Another resident, Chigoji Rocku, disclosed that three pregnant women were among those killed during the attack, worsening the grief and outrage among community members.

The Secretary General of the Irigwe Development Association (IDA), Danjuma Auta, confirmed the killings and condemned the repeated attacks on communities in Bassa Local Government Area and other parts of Plateau State.

Auta described the incident as unfortunate and barbaric, calling on security agencies to urgently strengthen surveillance and improve protection for vulnerable rural communities.

He also urged security operatives to identify those behind the killings and ensure justice is served to prevent further violence in the state.

The latest attack adds to the growing insecurity in Plateau State, where communities in Bassa, Bokkos, Riyom and Barkin Ladi local government areas have suffered repeated deadly attacks in recent months.

In April, gunmen reportedly attacked Mbwelle village in Bokkos Local Government Area, killing eight people, including members of the same family, while several others sustained injuries.

The recurring attacks have continued to raise concerns among residents and community leaders over what they describe as inadequate security presence in rural communities across the state.

As of the time of filing this report, the spokesman of the Plateau State Police Command, SP Alfred Alabo, had yet to officially comment on the latest attack despite repeated efforts to reach him.

Residents are now appealing to the Federal Government and security agencies to take urgent action to stop the wave of killings and restore peace in affected communities across Plateau State.

13 Killed As Terrorists Launch Fresh Midnight Attack In Plateau

metro

Grand Chief Imam of Oyo Land Visits CAN Leadership, Advocates Religious Harmony

Published

2 hours ago

May 8, 2026

Trends Admin

Grand Chief Imam of Oyo Land Visits CAN Leadership, Advocates Religious Harmony

The Grand Chief Imam of Oyo Land, Bilal Husayn Akinola Akeugberu, has paid a goodwill visit to the leadership of the Christian Association of Nigeria as part of efforts aimed at strengthening interfaith unity, peaceful coexistence and mutual understanding among residents of Oyo Land.

The meeting, which was held in an atmosphere of cordiality and mutual respect, brought together prominent Christian leaders across the Oyo Zone under the leadership of the Zonal Chairman of CAN, Amos Kehinde Eguntola.

Discussions during the visit focused on the need for sustained collaboration between Muslim and Christian communities in promoting peace, religious tolerance, unity and sustainable development in Oyo Land.

Speaking during the visit, Sheikh Al-Imam (Barrister) Bilal Husayn Akinola Akeugberu stated that both Islam and Christianity preach peace, love and harmony, stressing that religious leaders must continue to work together to preserve the peaceful atmosphere currently enjoyed in Oyo Land and beyond.

READ ALSO:

According to him, unity among religious leaders would contribute significantly to societal growth, moral development among youths and communal stability.

The Grand Chief Imam also expressed appreciation for the warm reception accorded to him by the CAN leadership, reaffirming his commitment to promoting interfaith dialogue, understanding and cooperation between adherents of the two major religions.

Responding, Pastor Amos Kehinde Eguntola described the visit as symbolic and commendable, noting that it would further strengthen the long-standing peaceful relationship between Muslims and Christians in Oyo Land.

He assured the Muslim leadership of CAN’s readiness to continue working with all stakeholders towards ensuring peace, unity and progress in society.

Other notable Christian leaders present at the meeting included Gbenga Oluokun, Peter Ajao, Wale Oyedemi, Ebasekore, Akin Alabi and Idowu David O..

As part of activities marking the visit, the Grand Chief Imam took photographs with the CAN leadership, including a group photograph with Local Government CAN chairmen in the zone, symbolising unity and cooperation among religious leaders.

Observers noted that the visit reflects the determination of both Muslim and Christian leaders in Oyo Land to continue fostering peace, religious tolerance and harmonious coexistence irrespective of religious affiliation.

Grand Chief Imam of Oyo Land Visits CAN Leadership, Advocates Religious Harmony

metro

Six Nasarawa University Students Abducted in Gudi Night Attack

Published

7 hours ago

May 8, 2026

Trends Admin

Nasarawa State Commissioner of Police, CP Shetima Jauro Mohammed

Six Nasarawa University Students Abducted in Gudi Night Attack

The Nasarawa State Police Command has confirmed the abduction of six students of the Nasarawa State University, Keffi (NSUK) following an armed attack on a student lodge at Anguwar Ninzo, Gudi area of Akwanga Local Government Area in Nasarawa State.

The incident occurred on Wednesday night when suspected gunmen invaded the off-campus residence and whisked away the students at gunpoint, throwing the community into panic.

According to the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ramhan Nansel, the command received a distress call at about 9:00 p.m. on May 6, 2026, reporting that armed men had stormed the lodge and abducted several occupants.

He confirmed that six victims have so far been identified, all of them students of the Faculty of Engineering, NSUK Gudi Campus, along with one additional person who was visiting one of the students at the time of the attack.

“So far, six victims have been identified, all students of the Faculty of Engineering, Gudi Campus of Nasarawa State University, Keffi, alongside one other victim who was visiting one of the students when the incident occurred,” he said.

READ ALSO:

The Commissioner of Police, CP Shetima Jauro Mohammed, visited the scene shortly after the incident for an on-the-spot assessment and reassured residents and the university community that efforts were underway to rescue the victims safely.

He directed immediate strengthening of security deployment in the area and surrounding communities to prevent further attacks.

The command also confirmed that a joint security operation has been launched, involving personnel from the Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services (DSS), Nigerian military, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and local vigilante groups.

Security operatives are currently combing nearby forests and suspected escape routes as part of efforts to rescue the abducted students and apprehend the attackers.

In addition, the Area Commander in Akwanga has been redeployed to enhance coordination of field operations and improve security response in the affected axis.

The police urged residents of Gudi and surrounding communities to remain calm but vigilant, while appealing for useful information that could assist ongoing rescue efforts.

DSP Nansel assured that the command remains committed to securing the safe return of the victims, adding that updates would be provided as investigations and operations continue.

The incident has once again raised concerns over the safety of students living in off-campus accommodations across Nigeria, particularly in rural and semi-rural communities where armed attacks have become increasingly frequent.